Do you remember learning marbling paint techniques at school? The technique has always been part of the art world, but this year it’s making a comeback in interior design, too. Part of a greater overall desire to embrace natural shapes and texture and artisanal craftsmanship, marbling is appearing on everything from wallpaper to lampshades.
30cm straight empire lightshade, Pooky. The handmade marbling technique used on this paper shade brings the green and blue colourscheme to life, each shade slightly different. Available in different colourways, it costs £47.08 from Pooky.
What is marbling?
There is a form of marbling which involves painting streaks on a plain background to copy the appearance of marble stone. If well done, this can look stunning. What we’re talking about here, though, is a technique that’s normally applied to paper and material. It involves printing multi-coloured swirly patterns on a flat surface.
You first form the patterns by swirling special, coloured paint in a flat tray of liquid, then laying the paper or cloth on top so that it absorbs the colours. This is an ancient technique which has been practised for hundreds of years in Turkey and neighbouring countries. It came to Britain in the second half of the 17th century and became really popular in the 19th century as a handicraft.
Blue marbled Staci bauble, Heavenly Homes & Gardens. This striking ornament is made from bright blue glass with a white marbled finish. It would look lovely hanging in a window to catch the sunlight. £12, available from Heavenly Homes & Gardens.
Why is marbling popular?
One of the main attractions of marbling is the organic swirl of the pattern, and its unique nature. The patterns mirror natural elements found in stone, water, plants and even birds’ feathers, adding a sense of calm tranquility to your living, space.
Another big selling point is the artisan nature of marbling. If your taste is more towards the creative and unique than the mass produced, then each marbled piece is slightly different and distinct.
Marbled topaz wallpaper, Impermanance. A simplistic yet elegant marbled wallpaper (above and main image), with fabulous colours to creates a spectacular interior. Create a feature wall, or cover a small room for instant wow factor. £219 for 3 x 52cm by 300cm rolls, available from Mind the Gap.
Depending on the colours and pattern used, marbled accessories and furniture can be bold, eye catching, subtle, soft, contemporary or traditional. Designers are experimenting with unexpected colour combinations for extra wow factor.
Marbled hurricane candle holders, La Residence Interiors. These gold and white candle holders cast a soft, inviting glow when lit to help create a welcoming atmosphere. £30, available from La Residence Interiors.
Modern marbling techniques often use sustainable materials, such as eco-friendly paint and recycled paper. It’s also an easy technique to learn yourself with fairly basic equipment, although if you want to make anything bigger than a lampshade you may struggle for space! You can buy ‘getting started’ marbling kits online, or choose your supplies individually from most craft shops.
Small Anise marbled frame, OKA. This little frame is made from a process designed to minimise waste, using the stone dust from other projects to create a new material. The handmade nature of the piece and natural materials will result in one being slightly different. £35, available from OKA.
However you choose to use the soft, organic shapes of marbling in your home, you can be sure your designs are different and distinct and will add a creative flair to your living space.
Main image shows the marbled Topaz wallpaper by Impermanence, (c) 2025
Related
<!–
–>